New polished granite panels will also be unveiled

WHAT:

In honor of veterans who have served both at home and abroad, and especially for those who have fallen in the line of duty, the City of Renton is hosting a special event on Memorial Day. The program is coordinated by Frank R. Vaise, VFW Post # 1263 and includes an invocation by the local chaplain of the Fred Hancock American Legion Post #19 (VFW Post #1263), presentation of colors, and a rendition of the National Anthem. A ceremonial wreath honoring the five branches of military service will be presented at the memorial. There will also be a ceremonial Honor Guard, playing of taps and singing of a patriotic song.

The city will also be unveiling new polished granite panels that replace the original etched and blank marble tiles that were installed when the park opened in 2003. The original tiles have experienced leaching of the grout material behind the tiles and have required an extraordinary amount of time and care by the city to keep them looking clean and respectful. The new panels include the etched names of nearly 2,000 veterans who honorably served their country. All existing etched plaques have been replicated in the same look and location on the new granite as in their original location, and the new, thicker material will provide decades of minimally required maintenance.

WHEN:

Monday, May 26, 1:00 pm

WHERE:

Veteran's Memorial park, 523 South 3rd Street, Renton. Parking is available at 200 Mill Building. Renton History Museum will also be open from 12:00 to 2:30 pm

PHOTO-OP:

Honoring veterans who have served both at home and abroad; laying of wreaths representing the five different branches of the Service.